The Ogun State Police Command has rescued 11 Ghanaian nationals allegedly held against their will in Sagamu after being lured to Nigeria with promises of Canadian and Spanish visas.
The victims, comprising seven men and four women, were rescued by operatives of the command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit following intelligence received on October 19, 2026.
According to the police, preliminary investigations indicated that the victims were allegedly deceived by a fellow Ghanaian national who promised to facilitate their travel abroad.
Each victim reportedly paid GH₵40,000 for the purported visa and travel arrangements before being brought to Nigeria, where they were allegedly held against their will.
The alleged fraud was valued at approximately ₦50.27 million.
The command’s Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, disclosed the development in a statement issued on Tuesday.
Babaseyi said operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit acted on credible intelligence, mobilised to the suspected hideout in Sagamu and successfully rescued all 11 victims.
He added that the rescued Ghanaians were receiving appropriate care and support, while detectives intensified efforts to identify and apprehend everyone connected with the alleged criminal network.
The Commissioner of Police in Ogun State, Bode Ojajuni, commended the operatives for their prompt response and professionalism.
Ojajuni reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting lives, combating transnational crime and preventing criminal networks from exploiting unsuspecting people seeking opportunities abroad.
He assured the public that efforts would continue to ensure that anyone found culpable was brought to justice.
The police urged members of the public to exercise caution when dealing with individuals or agents offering overseas travel and visa-processing services.
The command advised prospective travellers to verify the authenticity of travel arrangements and the credentials of service providers before making payments.
It also encouraged members of the public to report suspicious activities that could assist security agencies in identifying and dismantling criminal networks.
